Lizzo speaks out after judge dismisses former stylist's harassment and discrimination lawsuit
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Lizzo finally reacted to the latest development in the legal battle involving her after a federal judge dismissed a lawsuit against the singer. The judgment was issued on Tuesday, September 1.
Shortly after the verdict, the 'About Damn Time' hitmaker shared a video on social media. Lizzo did not say anything; she shared a text video. The lawsuit was filed by former employee Asha Daniels in 2023, accusing Lizzo of harassment and discrimination. The singer has repeatedly denied the allegations.
The ruling was given by US District Judge Fernando L Aenlle-Rocha.
Lizzo speaks out after judge dismisses former staffer’s harassment and discrimination lawsuit
Lizzo addressed the legal development in a video she shared online. “Today I am relieved to announce that I have won the case against me and my touring company Big Grrrl Touring.”
“All the ridiculous claims by a wardrobe assistant who worked on tour for less than 3 weeks (including a claim they broke an acrylic nail) have been dismissed,” she continued.
“It was all so shocking because I was being sued by someone who admittedly never met me. I prayed for the truth to come out and thanks to my incredible lawyers, the truth has prevailed," she added.
The Grammy winner emphasized how important the outcome was to her, “The truth matters more to me than anything, and I told y’all I will continue to fight every vicious claim that has been made against me and my businesses.”
As per TMZ, Lizzo's lawyer shared, "The court’s ruling today granting summary judgment is a total victory for Lizzo, her touring company, and the other defendants named in Asha Daniels’ ludicrous lawsuit."
"There was never any basis for Ms Daniels to sue Lizzo, her touring company, her tour manager, or her wardrobe manager. Indeed, the case against Lizzo was thrown out in December 2024. We are exploring all avenues to enforce our clients’ rights after this major win."
What did former staffer’s lawyer Ron Zambrano say about the ruling?
Following the ruling, Daniels’ lawyer, Ron Zambrano, expressed disappointment with the decision. “While we respect the court and the judicial process, we believe the decision improperly weighed evidence that should have been evaluated by a jury,” he said. “We disagree that an employee twisting her ankle and limping while trying to work does not meet the legal standard of a disability under the ADA. These are important issues because these claims often depend on how a jury evaluates the full workplace environment, the surrounding context, and disputed facts."
"We respectfully disagree with the Court’s approach and are considering appropriate next steps," he concluded. Previously, Daniels claimed she faced disability discrimination after a wardrobe manager allegedly pushed her. A heavy clothing rack was rolled over her foot.
The judge acknowledged that “the court does not seek to minimize or disregard the pain plaintiff felt from these injuries.” The court found that her injuries did not meet the requirements for a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
